Not Safe

Not SafeVet ReviewedReviewed by Dr Alex Crow BVetMed MRCVSprotein

Not Safe for Dogs

Medium dog serving: never human jerky

Key warning: all commercial beef jerky

Can Dogs Eat Beef Jerky? No — Salt Garlic Powder and Preservatives

This food is NOT safe for dogs. Keep it away from your pet.

Beef jerky is not safe for dogs. It contains extremely high sodium and most varieties contain garlic powder and onion powder. Dog-specific jerky treats are a safe alternative.

Search another food

Warning Signs & Symptoms

Extreme sodium: ion poisoning. Garlic/onion powder: hemolytic anemia. Preservatives: digestive irritation.

If Your Dog Ate This

Call vet if large amount consumed.

Safe to Feed

dog-specific unseasoned jerky treats only

What to Avoid

all commercial beef jerky

Preparation & Serving

Use dog-specific jerky only. Never human beef jerky.

Safer Alternatives

dehydrated-chicken

Did you know?

Jerky has been made for thousands of years — the word comes from the Quechua word charki meaning dried salted meat. Andean civilizations including the Inca made charki from llama and alpaca meat as far back as 1500 BCE.

Portions & nutrition

Serving (small dog): never human jerky
Serving (medium dog): never human jerky
Serving (large dog): never human jerky
Calories (per 100g): 295
Safe frequency: Never human jerky

Source

Source: AKC

What You Need to Know

Commercial beef jerky contains more sodium per gram than almost any other food. Flavored varieties include garlic and onion powder. Even plain beef jerky has sodium levels far exceeding what dogs should consume.

Beef Jerky for Dogs Variations

Beef Jerky for Dogs SpecificCaution

Not sure what to do next? Read our emergency guide What to Do If Your Dog Eats Something Toxic

Want to know what other dangers are hiding in your home?

Take the 60-second kitchen safety assessment to find out your dog's risk score.

Take the safety assessment

If Your Dog Ate This — Act Now

Related guides & hubs

Browse the food databaseSearch foods and browse categories Browse all dog health guidesNutrition, safety, insurance, and more Emergency guide: what to do nextStep-by-step actions for the next 60 minutes Dangerous foods dogs cannot eatA complete toxic foods list Best online vet servicesTelehealth options when you need answers fast

Frequently asked questions

Is Beef Jerky for Dogs safe for dogs?: No, Beef Jerky for Dogs is not safe for dogs. Beef jerky is not safe for dogs. It contains extremely high sodium and most varieties contain garlic powder and onion powder. Dog-specific jerky treats are a safe alternative.
What happens if a dog eats Beef Jerky for Dogs?: If a dog eats Beef Jerky for Dogs, they may experience: Extreme sodium: ion poisoning. Garlic/onion powder: hemolytic anemia. Preservatives: digestive irritation.
How much Beef Jerky for Dogs can a dog eat?: Commercial beef jerky contains more sodium per gram than almost any other food. Flavored varieties include garlic and onion powder. Even plain beef jerky has sodium levels far exceeding what dogs should consume.

Stay in the loop

Get new food safety guides, vet tips, and alerts delivered to your inbox.

Medical Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult a licensed veterinarian before making dietary changes for your pet.